SANDWICH – “Ibang Araw Na Lang”
Recorded and engineered by longtime collaborator Shinji along with guitarist Mong Alcaraz. “Ibang Araw Na Lang” finds Sandwich showing more restraint. The band keeps it together with a rock-solid groove and minimal playing, offset by adding elements like horns, strings, and keys.
Showcasing a different side of the 5-piece group, “Ibang Araw Na Lang.” is a somber song about loss, longing, and hope. The new track contains themes that the band themselves were dealing with coming out of the pandemic and its narrative everyone can relate to and maybe have even dealt with. They’re also hoping that maybe, the song will help people to see the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.
NOEL CABANGON. – “H’wag Kang Mag-Alala”
Following “Kung Ako” released last March from Icons Music, easy-listening fan-favorite Noel Cabangon takes a strong presence on music platforms with his latest single “H’wag Kang Mag-Alala” According to Noel, “H’wag kang Mag-alala” is not merely a promise but a lifetime commitment to love and take care of your loved ones. He said that it’s a reflection that “came at a time we were all experiencing isolation.”
The track’s chorus should make listeners feel it’s inspired songwriting, with words singing intensely on its own, “Aalayan ka, dadamayan ka/ Pagsisikapan ka sa habang panahon.” Noel noted, “”For me, being able to release a new work from my soul is more than special. Songwriting is making art. Making art is to bear yourself out, and bearing yourself out is not that easy.”
MEEK & CHILL- “Asta”
This thought-provoking hip-hop track diverges from the typical narrative of violence and gang-related themes often found in the genre. In “Asta,” Meek & Chill offers an alternative perspective and vibe, urging those in the hip-hop community to consider a different direction. Through their lyrics, the rising duo emphasizes the potential consequences of glorifying violence in music and encourages a more positive and reflective approach to the genre. The track delivers a powerful message about the impact of music on society, making it a must-listen for those looking to be inspired by a socially conscious musical experience.
NO ROME – “Brother”
Guendoline Rome Viray Gomez, better known by his stage name No Rome, is a London-based Filipino musician. “Brother” single release is the first new music from him since he debuted in 2021.
The new single, produced by Kurisu and recorded in London, finds No Rome exploring platonic love, inspired by poet Rachel McKibbens and conversations with Kurisu during the studio sessions, as he explains: “Me and Chris (Kurisu) were listening to an old record called Plantasia by Mort Garson while watching random shit about AI.” No Rome continues: “There’s this poem that Rachel McLibbens wrote called “Letter from my Heart to my Brain” where she says “It’s okay to feel like only a photograph of yourself, to need a stranger to pull your hair and pin you down”. That spoke so much to me, understanding that it’s okay to fuck up. I felt the need to write something that shows love in a platonic way and being there for each other more.”
PAUL LAGAC & YNISH – “Home”
An upcoming track from Paul Lagac & Ynish. “Home” deals with self-love and finding your place in the world. It tells the story of two people who decide to leave behind their old lives and start anew, hoping to reconnect with each other and themselves. Along the way, they face challenges and uncertainties, but they never give up. They trust that everything happens for a reason and that they have each other’s support. At last, they reach their destination, where they can be free, happy, and authentic. “Home” is a song that will touch your heart and motivate you to follow your passion.
JAIN – “Makeba”
French pop sensation JAIN is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as her 2015 global hit “Makeba” recently peaked at No. 8 on Spotify’s Viral 50-PH. The explosive dance track even inspired a dance trend with Filipino celebs and influencers Regine Tolentino, et. al. hopping on the viral wave. The track’s stratospheric journey combines odes to South African singer and civil rights activist Miriam Makeba with throbbing club beats and fade-outs with the distinctive “ooohe” vocal hook that spearheaded the trend.
